More and more Canadians report they are considering going electric for their next vehicle, according to a survey commissioned by BMW Group Canada, which examined interest in and knowledge about electric vehicles (EVs). The survey findings also demonstrate that Canadian men and women may be divided in terms of their self-described knowledge about electric vehicles and their perceived role in new vehicle purchase decisions in the household.
In fact, one quarter are considering the purchase of an EV within the next two years due to gas prices and rising costs associated with ICE engines, reports the study.
Key Survey Findings:
- 79% of Canadians are concerned with operating costs of their internal combustion engine.
- 25% of Canadians are considering the purchase of an electric vehicle within the next two years.
- 66% of men consider themselves the primary decision maker when purchasing a new vehicle versus 47% of women.
- 75% of men consider themselves to be knowledgeable when it comes to understanding EV technology versus 50% of women.
- 79% of women surveyed say helping the environment is an important factor when considering the purchase of an electric vehicle, versus 65% of men.
- Men are 7% more willing than women to pay more for an electric vehicle.
The survey, conducted this summer in partnership with market research firm Maru/Blue, gathered insights from over 1,200 Canadian licensed drivers with representation from every province. It’s a part of an initiative by BMW Canada to “drive the electric mobility conversation forward and to encourage acceptance and understanding of electrification outside of the traditional automotive space, particularly among women.”
Sasha Exeter, Canadian brand marketer, entrepreneur and content creator, serves as a BMW Canada Brand Ambassador, using her social channels to educate her audience about the benefits of driving a hybrid electric vehicle. The brand is also working with Michele Romanow, CEO and co-founder of Clearco, entrepreneur, and Dragon on Dragons’ Den to educate Canadians about the Group’s efforts in the area of sustainability.
“We’re seeing tremendous interest and demand not only among existing BMW owners, but from Canadians across the country when it comes to all-electric vehicles,” said Kevin Marcotte, National Manager, BMW i at BMW Canada. “Our research clearly shows that Canadians care deeply about the environment and are very interested in learning more about electric vehicles. At BMW, we believe that electric mobility is one of the key elements shaping the future of sustainable mobility, and we have the knowledge and experience to help Canadians understand and adapt to this new form of transportation.”
“There is tremendous diversity in BMW’s electrified product offering, which allows Canadians to either dive into electrification or ease into it,” said Marcotte. “From sports sedans and luxury vehicles to Sports Activity Vehicles, the BMW Group has purely electric or hybrid electric models to suit all Canadians’ needs.”
“We’re excited to continue educating Canadians about the future of electromobility,” said Marcotte. “The auto industry is transforming, and we are committed to helping people understand that transformation and how it will positively impact their future mobility.”
